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Scoliosis is an abnormal curving of the spine that can occur at birth or later in life. Instead of a straight line, the spine
will appear like an “S” or “C” and curve sideways. This condition is most common in children
and adolescents but can also affect adults.

Scoliosis Causes

Most of the time, the cause of scoliosis is unknown. Scoliosis can also be associated with congenital birth defects that
cause a developing baby’s spine to not form properly.

Neuromuscular conditions are a third cause of scoliosis. These conditions include cerebral palsy, spinal bifida and muscular
dystrophy.

Scoliosis Diagnosis

Your health care provider will do a physical exam. Imaging tests such as X-rays, MRI or CT scans may be performed.

Scoliosis Treatment

While scoliosis can be mild and resolve by itself, more severe cases that cause pain, breathing problems or interfere with
daily activities will require intervention. Nonsurgical methods like a brace can be used to help straighten the back
for spine curvature above 20 degrees, while surgery may be needed for curvature above 40 degrees.

Children and adolescents with scoliosis usually have surgery to correct spine curvature once their bones have stopped growing.

Leaders in Scoliosis Surgery

Wake Forest Baptist physicians have unique expertise to perform advanced reconstruction spine surgeries. We specialize in
surgical treatment of the aging spine with deformity or scoliosis correction, using a technique with rods.

Insurance

Wake Forest Baptist accepts most major health insurance plans for hospital, physician and clinic services and participates in Medicare and Medicaid government programs. For more information, visit Billing and Insurance.

This chart is a list of the most common health insurance plans we accept. This list is subject to change. Please check your individual plan to confirm their participation and the coverage allowed.

Due to the different physician groups and hospitals within the Wake Forest Baptist system, physician services and hospital services are billed separately. Please remember that health insurance coverage varies, so some services may not be covered.

If you don’t see your plan or you have questions, please call our Customer Service Center at 877-938-7497. We will do our best to work with you and your plan.

Referring Physicians

At Wake Forest Baptist we understand the importance of referrals. Our Physician Liaisons partner with referring physicians in our community and beyond to provide information on our physicians and clinical services. Full list of new physicians.

Disclaimer: The information on this website is for general informational purposes only and SHOULD NOT be relied upon as a substitute for sound professional medical advice, evaluation or care from your physician or other qualified health care provider.